While CAP has long been associated with
search and rescue missions, its work also includes disaster relief and
communications, as well as counter-drug and homeland security missions.
In search and rescue, CAP continues to conduct 95 percent of all federal
inland SAR missions, as directed by the Air Force Rescue Coordination
Center (AFRCC) at Langley AFB, VA. CAP also supports the Joint Rescue
Coordination Centers in Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
On average, each year CAP members fly more than 100,000 hours in
operational missions and save about 100 lives. CAP provides air and ground
support for disaster relief, flying officials to remote locations,
transporting blood or live tissue to critical care sites and performing
aerial damage assessment.
You do not have to be a pilot to contribute to CAP's emergency services
efforts. Aircrews include "scanners" and "observers," people who train
their eyes to find downed aircraft. Ground team members search for missing
persons and help locate emergency distress beacons. The mission base is
staffed by administrative personnel, public affairs officers,
communications officers, and other non-pilot specialists.
In 1986, Congress authorized CAP to assist government and law enforcement
agencies in the fight to eliminate illicit drug use, production and sale
in the US and its territories. CAP now provides reconnaissance,
communications and transportation for counter-drug missions.
CAP’s missions succeed through a seamless interplay of technology and
teamwork. With new developments like satellite imagery and internet-based
reporting, CAP is emerging as the resource of choice to support our
nation’s strategy for homeland security.
